Sydney - Post Report Question and Answers
What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
For those seeking community, #1 don't come to Sydney. Sydney was voted the third worst city in the world to make friends by TimeOut magazine. And #2, if you do come to Sydney, join a team sports league or volunteer organization. The only people I know who made *real* Australian friends, and not just acquaintances, were people who played team sports. There are plenty of social activities, but Sydneysiders do not have a culture of befriending new people. Everyone in Sydney was born here, or has lived here for a decade or more. They all have well-established social circles and no incentive to expand them. They are perfectly nice and friendly people, just not interested in getting to know you more or spend more time with you than necessary. - May 2023
There's generally not a lot of socializing among Consulate staff like in other posts. Aussies are generally friendly and open, and people have found local friends via sports clubs, book clubs, neighborhood associations, and other interests. - Dec 2020
Hang out with people at work; try and make friends locally- it's all up to you - May 2018
Since movies run about US$20/person, we look for free things like hiking, the beach etc. - Mar 2015
Anything under the sun, especially when it comes to "barbies", which are the quintessential Aussie informal social gatherings. - Jun 2010
